“Tangier is a bit mad, sometimes messy, always magical. For anyone into interiors, culture, or a good treasure hunt, it’s a must.”
In 2021, I bought a little beach house on the quiet southwest coast of Spain, just opposite Tangier. One of the biggest perks? I’m only an hour’s ferry ride from one of the most inspiring cities I’ve ever visited.
Tangier is a bit mad, sometimes messy, always magical. For anyone into interiors, culture, or a good treasure hunt, it’s a must. Whether I’m sourcing for clients or just exploring, it’s a place I return to again and again.
Here’s my handpicked edit of the best shops, places to stay, and spots to eat — especially for design lovers like me.
Homeware & Interiors: Where to Shop in Tangier
Galerie Tindouf If you’re hunting for antiques, this place is the jackpot. It’s packed with ceramics, Berber rugs, embroidered cushions, original art and furniture. It’s chaotic in the best way with items piled high, treasures tucked everywhere. Prices reflect the quality, but there’s room to haggle (always politely!). Make friends with the owner, Yousif — he’s passionate and full of stories.
Bleu de Fès This is rug heaven. Tucked inside the medina, they stock over 2,000 handmade Berber rugs from tribes across Morocco. It’s a feast of colour and texture and they ship internationally. I love that they explain the craftsmanship behind each piece, so you know exactly what you’re taking home.
Kasbah Collective A modern, conscious concept store that showcases local artisans. Expect beautifully tailored kaftans, handwoven textiles, ceramics, and a small art gallery space. It’s stylish, meaningful, and supports small-scale makers. A great place for thoughtful souvenirs or interiors pieces with soul.
Habibi Burton Created by interior designer Frank de Biasi and Gene Meyer, this shop feels like a curated dream home. Think colourful throws, dainty tables, quirky textiles — everything chic, handcrafted, and totally unique. It captures the romantic, layered spirit of Tangier.
Fondouk Chejra This little weaving market just outside the medina is easy to miss but well worth the detour. Wooden looms creak rhythmically as weavers — many of them multi-generational — make robes, rugs, and scarves. It’s authentic, personal, and you’re buying directly from the makers.
Fashion & Concept Stores
Topolina A boutique known for bold prints, beautiful tailoring, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Their collections mix Moroccan flair with a European eye — stylish, playful, and perfect if you want something no one else has.
Las Chicas Part café, part concept store. Great for interiors books, arty magazines, colourful ceramics, and a flat white. It has that effortlessly cool vibe and is perfect for a midday coffee and browse.
“This is rug heaven. Tucked inside the medina, they stock over 2,000 handmade Berber rugs from tribes across Morocco.”
Rugs galore for all tastes
Georgie sourcing at the Weaver’s Market in Tangier
Slippers are a ‘must have’ purchase from Tangier
Where to Eat in Tangier (From Local to Luxe)
Tangier isn’t (yet) a foodie capital, but there are gems. Here are the ones I’ve tried, tested, and recommend:
Le Saveur de Poisson No menu, no frills — just fabulous fish. This Tangier institution serves whatever came in fresh from the sea that day. Expect soup, tagine, grilled fish, and fruit with honey. It’s simple, light, and popular for a reason.
Le Salon Bleu Set high on the kasbah walls, this blue-and-white spot offers dreamy views and mezze-style Moroccan fare. It’s a great place for breakfast or sunset dinners — the kind of spot you linger in with a mint tea (note: no alcohol served).
Anna e Paolo A vintage-style Italian trattoria run by a Tangier-born brother and sister. Homemade pastas, proper pizzas, good wine, and a cosy local vibe. Their gelato is homemade and sold by the tub — I always take one home.
El Morocco Club A glam, red-and-black French-Moroccan restaurant in the kasbah with a stylish piano bar below which wouldn’t be out of place in Casablanca. The food is refined — think oysters, foie gras, tagines, and ceviche — and the mood is old-school chic. Yes, you can still smoke inside.
Alma Kitchen & Coffee Cool, contemporary café founded by a photographer and a jewellery designer. Lots of veggie and vegan options — smoothie bowls, pastas, great coffee. They host creative events too. A refreshing contrast to the traditional.
El Tangerino Spanish tapas right on the beachside promenade. Go for the paella, pinchos, and sea views. Upstairs is best for sunset dinners; they also have live music in summer.
L’Orangerie at Villa Mabrouka If you’re celebrating something special, book this place. It’s the restaurant at Jasper Conran’s hotel (once Yves Saint Laurent’s home), and it’s every bit as elegant as you’d imagine — white tablecloths, herb gardens, and a view to die for. The food more than lives up to the setting.
Restaurant L’Océan A dreamy lunch spot by Sidi Kacem beach. After a visit to the Caves of Hercules, this is the perfect place to unwind over oysters, lobster salad, and a chilled glass of rosé. It’s best at the weekend — just be sure to book.
Where to Stay in Tangier
La Tangerina A classic medina stay with lovely rooms (stay on the top floor for the views) and a charming rooftop where they serve a great breakfast (weather permitting). No alcohol (common in Morocco), but the views make up for it.
Dar Nour Stylish, unfussy rooms and a gorgeous rooftop restaurant. Their menu blends Moroccan and Mediterranean influences — we’ve had lovely dinners there in the warmer months. The mini-suites are simple, comfortable, and great value. And rose from Provence on tap!
Villa Mabrouka Now a stunning 12-room boutique hotel. Gardens, sea views, and interiors to swoon over. An exclusive sanctuary with a price tag to match.
Mimi Calpe A hidden gem at the edge of the kasbah. This guesthouse is full of vintage charm, with a pool, gardens, and a laid-back restaurant. It feels like staying in a friend’s grand old villa — if your friend has amazing taste. Yousif the manager can arrange anything. They do serve alcohol, but let him know in advance if you’d like wine or beer chilled and ready.
“It feels like staying in a friend’s grand old villa — if your friend has amazing taste.”
Final Tips From Me
– Bring cash: Cards aren’t always accepted, especially in the souks.
– Haggle with grace: It’s expected. Smile, be polite, and take your time.
– Let yourself get lost: Some of my favourite finds have come from wandering aimlessly through the medina.
– Hop over from Spain: If you’re based in Andalusia like me, a day or weekend trip to Tangier is easy — the ferry from Tarifa to Tangier takes just one hour and it’s lovely.
Whether you’re going for the shopping, the history, the hidden gardens, or just to soak in the intoxicating atmosphere, Tangier delivers. I go back again and again — not just to buy, but to breathe it all in and come home creatively recharged.
I hope this helps you get the most out of your trip. Enjoy!
“Villa Mabrouka – now a stunning 12-room boutique hotel. Gardens, sea views, and interiors to swoon over.”
Stunning gardens @villamabrouka
Doorway of entrance of the Kasbah in the Tangier’s medina
